Revolutionizing Africa’s Leather Industry: COMESA’s Bold Plan for 2025–2029
The leather industry in Africa is on the brink of a major transformation. The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) has unveiled its Regional Leather Value Chain Strategy 2025–2029, aiming to shift the continent from a raw hides exporter to a global leader in leather manufacturing. With Africa currently exporting millions of raw hides only to import finished leather goods worth over $1.1 billion annually, this strategy seeks to reverse the trend and unlock the sector’s vast potential.
Dr. Juma Mukhwana, Kenya’s Principal Secretary for Investments, Trade, and Industry, emphasized the need for harmonized trade standards. “Trade standards should facilitate, not hinder, business growth,” he said. By aligning regulations, African businesses can expand their reach and increase the continent’s share in the global leather industry.
COMESA, with its 640 million population and a combined GDP exceeding $1 trillion, holds immense economic promise. However, trade restrictions, poor infrastructure, and reliance on raw material exports have stifled growth. The new strategy aims to address these challenges by fostering regional supply chains and boosting intra-African trade, which currently stands at a mere 15–17%.
Breaking Trade Barriers in the Leather Industry
One of the biggest hurdles facing Africa’s leather industry is fragmented trade policies. Different countries impose varying standards, making cross-border commerce difficult. Dr. Mukhwana stressed that harmonizing these regulations is crucial for growth. “If businesses can operate seamlessly across borders, Africa can compete globally,” he noted.
The continent’s reliance on exporting raw materials while importing finished products highlights a significant economic gap. COMESA Secretary General Chileshe Kapwepwe called this trend unsustainable. “We cannot keep exporting raw hides only to buy back expensive leather goods. This strategy will position Africa as a producer of high-quality finished products,” she explained.
Ethiopia serves as a success story, having built a thriving leather industry through industrial parks and local processing. Dr. Mukhwana urged other nations to adopt similar models. “Collaboration, not isolation, will help Africa meet global demand,” he said.
Boosting Intra-African Trade in the Leather Sector
Africa’s low intra-continental trade remains a major setback. While Europe trades nearly 70% within its region, Africa’s internal trade is only 15–17%. Dr. Mukhwana warned that this imbalance stifles economic progress. “We must build strong regional supply chains to keep value within Africa,” he asserted.
The new strategy proposes a centralized “Trade House” where SMEs can access affordable raw materials, chemicals, and accessories. This initiative aims to eliminate production bottlenecks and help businesses scale. Nobby Macharia, Chair of the African Leather and Leather Products Institute (ALLPI), emphasized the need to educate farmers and abattoirs on the value of hides. “Properly processed leather can create thousands of jobs,” he said.
Dr. Mukhwana drew a stark comparison between Africa and Europe’s manufacturing outputs. “Africa has 17% of the world’s population but contributes less than 3% to global manufacturing. Meanwhile, Europe, with just 9% of the population, accounts for 24%. Somebody is eating our cake,” he remarked.
From Raw Hides to Global Competitiveness
The COMESA strategy envisions Africa as a key player in the global leather industry, moving beyond raw exports to high-end manufacturing. Former COMESA Secretary General Erastus Mwencha highlighted Ethiopia’s success and urged investment in design and branding. “Innovation will keep Africa competitive,” he said.
The plan also addresses misconceptions about leather in rural areas, where hides are often seen as waste. Macharia stressed that hides can be more valuable than meat. “Sensitizing stakeholders will reduce waste and increase revenue,” he added.
The event concluded with a call to action. ALLPI Executive Director Nicholas Mudungwe likened strategy implementation to marriage. “It requires commitment and teamwork,” he said. With this bold plan, Africa’s leather industry could soon rival global leaders, creating jobs and boosting economies.
A New Era for Africa’s Leather Industry
COMESA’s Regional Leather Value Chain Strategy marks a turning point for Africa’s leather industry. By shifting from raw exports to finished products, the continent can reclaim its economic potential. With harmonized trade policies, stronger regional collaboration, and innovative manufacturing, Africa is poised to become a global leader in leather production.
This strategy is not just about economics—it’s about reclaiming Africa’s place in the world market. As Dr. Mukhwana aptly put it, “Every time we import a finished good, we export a job.” Now, Africa is ready to bring those jobs home.
